Theodore Gegoux  
The New York Years
(1873 to 1909)  

That which follows is a chronological listing of articles about the artist Gegoux, which were found in the newspapers of his time.  These articles represent most of what is known and believed about the artist.  Faithfully compiled from microfilm copies of the old newspapers.  Please forgive the miss-spelled names and any other errors.  Efforts have been made to assure that the information is as accurate as possible.

Chapter Two - The Lightning Brush Copying Company   Carthage Studio - (September 1878 to July 28, 1879)

"Having observed that quick sales and small profits are the most beneficial, I will paint portraits at low enough rates to enable the millions to have them." Theo Gegoux 1879.

Gegoux's Lightning Brush Copying Company was sort of an early version of Kinkos.  In his Lightning Brush advertisements in 78' & 79', Gegoux offered to rescale or resize the portrait subjects to the patron's desires.  Reproduction of images and enlargements could both be accomplished under a single roof.  Gegoux copied everything by hand, manually.  He would also sketch the dead and age the subject likenesses to the request of the customer.   Deft with portrait media, Gegoux painted in crayon, pastel, oil, and occasionally water colors.  His earliest work was in photography, but little beyond his family photo albums remain as evidence.  Once described as "fearless" Gegoux would seemingly try anything once.   Here is one such example: Hand carved wooden decorative objects from the Black Forest of Germany, were very popular in the late 19th Century.  Admirers could acquire these objects by mail order catalog.  Being German, these catalogs had no lack of complexity.  Every type of hand carved object in varies sizes, shapes, and quality adorned the catalogs.  Hand carved and hand painted was considered ideal and carried a premium.  As the story goes, a friend of Gegoux ordered what they thought was a full size hand carved and hand painted deer head, complete with antlers.  The friend was said to be quite excited and the anticipation mounted as the parcel from overseas was awaited.   Then sadness when the beautifully carved, but unpainted deer head arrived.  Gegoux's friend brought the deer head to the artist, "Can anything be done?" was asked.   The artist carefully examined the carving and the catalog after which he asked his friend, "Do you want it to look like this?" Gegoux's friend answered in the affirmative and the contract was set.  The artist was said to have completed the work in but little time.  His friend was well pleased with the result.  The stories are still told today, about how many visitors to the family home mistook the Gegoux painted deer head for taxidermy.   Gegoux's range of effort was so diverse that at one point on request, he successfully undertook the restoration of a 72 year old painting. (12.008)   As to style, Gegoux was among the realist school; he painted what he saw.  Also a pragmatist, he painted what he thought would sell.  From the beginning Gegoux would paint what the customers wanted.  He saw a potential market for portraits copied from photographs and he moved to meet the demand.  Gegoux continued to exhibit his work at the local fairs, primarily for advertising but he often took home prize money. (2.016)   There was occasional tragedy among portrait subjects.  Many portrait subjects were painted posthumously.  But also some subjects would die shortly after their portraits.  One such example was Leon Talcott, who died only a few years after having his portrait done for his mother. (2.040)   During his Carthage years, Gegoux added oil paints to his skills and also pastel colors.   By 1877 both his crayons and his oils were attracting attention.   Colored crayon, also known as pastel, produced an aspect to portraits that photographers would not be able to reproduce for many decades.  One example is Gegoux's life-size pastel portrait of Rev. Gardner Baker, which was exhibited at the Methodist & Episcopal Conference in April 1879.  The popular and revered Reverend had died prior to the conference, but through Gegoux's portrait his imagine presided over the affair even in death. (2.036)   One of Gegoux's chief successes consists in reproducing portraits of deceased persons.  We refer to the portrait of a child of Mr. Frank Weller, of Carthage, made after death, which was a marvel for its life-like appearance.  Another was a child who died at the age of seven years, but the parents had no picture other than a small photograph taken while at the age of four.  The family desired a crayon portrait to represent the child at the age of seven years.   Gegoux undertook the task. (2.044)   Posthumous portraiture became a mainstay of Gegoux's business.  Much of the news from his years in Carthage describes his portraits of deceased subjects.  Gegoux worked both from life but also from death; he would accept the commission.  Many times the patron would have only a small photograph or perhaps a picture of the corpse in the coffin.   Gegoux also aged the subject as desired by the patron.   During his career, Gegoux traveled throughout northern New York.   In this chapter we find news from the St. Lawrence to Utica.  From his studio in Carthage, Gegoux would spend some weekends in Lowville to maintain his relationships there.  He did mail order portraits for a Brooklyn customer.  Gegoux also visited New York City for about ten days in late January and early February of 1879. (2.029)   Many more notable local persons were portrayed by Gegoux.  In this chapter we find Warren Salmons, his wife and daughter, among the largest land holders in Lewis County at that time; Henry A. Haberer, brother of the Carthage merchants; Rev. M. D. Kinney, pastor of the Utica M. E. church; Mr. G. H. W. Harter, businessman of Copenhagen; Rev. Granberry, pastor Carthage Episcopal church; Mr. John Sherman, founder of the Watertown YMCA; and the father of Nettie L. Hewitt, she was a highly praised local singer.

Portrait Subjects Rev. Gardner Baker (1802-1877)   In 1879, the artist Gegoux painted a five foot high color pastel portrait of Father Baker for the Northern New York M&E conference at which the portrait was centered over the pulpit.  Father Baker presiding once more. (2.034)   Gardner Baker was born September 11, 1802 in Minden, Montgomery county New York, the son of Thomas Baker and Mary Hall, one of nine children.  In 1827 he married Miss Esther, daughter of Ens and Puella Scott, of Perch river.  Five children were born of this marriage and it is said that Esther "has endured the hardships and tolls of an itinerant's life with Christian zeal an patience."(Oakes 1905)   By the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal church in 1860, he had risen to fraternal delegate of the general conference.  At his last general conference he was given "a seat upon the platform with the bishops." (Oakes 1905)

News from Carthage (1878 to 1879)

2.001)  The Carthage New York Republican - Sept 3, 1878 - Tuesday SEE Gegoux's new advertisement.

2.002)  The Carthage New York Republican - September 3, 1878 to March 18, 1879 A Portrait In Oil For - Every Man, Woman and Child! A Crayon Portrait, For Everybody! Lightning Brush Copying Company, Carthage, N. Y. Theodore Gegoux , Proprietor. Portrait Painting Ever since the beautiful art of Portrait Painting was discovered, there has been a great demand for Portraits; though not until this advanced stage of the art have portrait painters offered pictures at a sufficiently low price to enable the public in general to purchase them.  After a number of years of practical experience in Portrait Painting, having observed that quick sales and small profits are the most beneficial, I will paint Portraits at low enough rates to enable the millions to have them. PRICE LIST of PORTRAITS IN OIL AND CRAYON   Size Crayon In Oil Size of Head 11 x 14 8.00 10.00 3 inches 14 x 17 10.00 12.00 4 inches 16 x 20 15.00 16.00 5 inches 18 x 22 17.00 20.00 5 3/4 inches 20 x 24 20.00 24.00 6 1/2 inches 22 x 27 23.00 27.00 7 inches 24 x 30 27.00 30.00 7 1/2 inches This List Includes Bust Portraits only.  Life Size Portraits, showing full figure, either standing or sitting, will be charged for proportionately.  When Oil Painting are wanted parties ordering by mail should include with the picture a full description as to dress, complexion, eyes, and preferably a sample of the hair.  Those ordering through my agents will also have to do this, all the agents are supplied with a sufficient number of samples of portraits of which we have duplicates that will enable us to give every satisfaction.   All Parties ordering by mail or sending in pictures by our agents, may feel assured of the work done as well as if under their own supervision.  Also, do not fear to send in your fathers or mothers pictures, even if the only ones they ever had taken.  They will be well preserved and returned to you in good condition.   Copying from Old Portraits a Specialty. Theodore Gegoux, in Carthage, Jeff Co., N. Y.

2.003)  The Carthage New York Republican - September 10, 1878 - Tuesday List of Premiums Awarded at the Third Annual Fair of the Carthage Union Agricultural Society held Sept 4, 5, and 6, 1878 Class 23 Exhibition pictures, 1st Theo. Gegoux, 2nd Hattie Hatch   original portrait painting, 1st and 2d Theo. Gegoux; .... crayon drawing, 1st and 2d Theo. Gegoux; .... photographs, Geo F Lewis .... Discretionary Class 46 .... landscape crayon drawing, Theo. Gegoux;

2.004)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - September 11, 1878 Theo. Gegoux, the artist, of Carthage, is exhibiting some of his fine crayon and oil portraits at the fair.

2.005)  The Watertown Re-Union - September 12, 1878 THE CARTHAGE FAIR FINE ART DEPARTMENT. Geo. F. Lewis displays a large collection of finely executed photographs from his gallery in our village.  Professor Gegoux of Carthage, makes a large and noteworthy exhibit of oil paintings, crayon drawings, &etc.  Among them we noticed a finely executed portrait in oil of Mr. C. L. Frederick of Carthage; also a portrait in oil of H. J. Welch, Esq; also one of Mrs. J. R. Cozzens of Syracuse, and a life size crayon drawing of Mr. Cozzens, a crayon portrait of Mrs. H. B. Smith of Carthage, and one of Rev. Father McShane, pastor of St. James church Carthage, and one which drew forth the admiration of all was a fine crayon portrait of George McAllaster's boy of Antwerp.  Also a fine portrait in oil of Mr. R. S. Middleton of New York.  Miss Kattie Hatch, Miss Mary Reynolds, Mr. Charles Spalsbury and other amateurs made contributions to this department.

2.006)  The St. Lawrence Plain Dealer - September 13, 1878 - Thursday J. H. Magoon, agent for the Lightning Brush Copying Company, of Carthage, N. Y.  We copy and enlarge all small pictures, such as Photographs, Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, etc., etc.  They can be executed in Crayon or painted in Oil on Canvas, the two most durable pictures in the world. All changes, such as putting on a coat, opening eyes on pictures of dead persons, etc., can be done without difficulty, as the entire work is done by hand.  Satisfaction guaranteed or no pay.  Now is your time to order, during the Fair.  Bring your pictures to the Floral Hall and consult with the agent there.  It will do you all kinds of good to look at his Specimens. Theodore Gegoux & Co., Managers. J. H. Magoon, General Ag't, Carthage, N. Y.

2.007)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - September 18, 1878 The Lewis County Fair. Tuesday, the first day of the Lewis County Fair, was one of the pleasantest of the season and augured well for the success of the four days exhibition. .... Theo. Gegoux, the portrait artist, from Carthage, exhibited a life-like crayon bust of the late A. V. Smiley.  Also in oil of H. J. Welch and C. L. Frederick, Crayon of Mr. and Mrs. N. H. Coggins, of Syracuse, a child of E. McAllister of Antwerp ...

2.008)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - September 18, 1878 Miscellaneous Class .... Best portrait paintings, Theodore Gegoux. . .- .50

2.009)  The Watertown Daily Times - September 21, 1878 - Saturday Good Advice To all who will attend the county fair.  You who wish to have your portrait or that of your friend painted or crayoned, do not fail to bring with you the small picture which you intend to get copied and show it to the undersigned, who will be at the fair with a large collection of portraits in oil and in crayon and will take your orders. Theodore Gegoux Artist and proprietor of the Lightning Brush and Copying House, Carthage, N Y.

2.010)  The Watertown Daily Times - September 21, 1878 - Saturday Also reprinted in:   The Carthage New York Republican - September 24, 1878 - Tuesday REDWOOD FAIR. The Redwood Fair last week was a success.  The weather was fine, the attendance was large, entries numerous and the goods and wares of the highest mechanical order. .... Among the pictures were some from Theo. Gegoux, of Carthage, much admired.

2.011)  The Watertown Daily Times - September 25, 1878 - Saturday Theo. Gegoux , from his studio at Carthage, exhibited most beautiful crayon portraits of John A. Sherman, of our city; Mrs. A. R. Coggens, of Syracuse; Rev Father McShane, Carthage; Geo. Bernard McAllaster, a five year old son of Mr. Geo. D. McAllaster, of Antwerp; also oil pictures of Mr. C. L. Frederick and J. H. Welch, Esq., of Carthage.  These latter were so life-like that one gentleman stepped up and was about to shake hands with these Carthage gentlemen.

2.012)  The Utica Morning Herald - September 26, 1878 - Thursday Jefferson County Fair - Domestic Hall. In this department the display is large and not limited to articles coming strictly under this head.  First is a large display of carpets and knit goods.  Hagar, Beebe & Scott show a case of fine silverware, and another of jewelry and watches.  Theo. Gegoux , a Carthage artist, displays a number of crayon portraits.

2.013)  The Watertown Re-Union - September 26, 1878 We attended the Redwood Fair as a matter of course and found the best exhibition in Floral Hall that we have ever seen at Redwood.  The hall was beautifully ornamented with cedar and a profusion of flowers and plants.  We were informed by Mr. M. H. Smith that the Floral Harp and wreathing The Goddess of Flowers, were the work of the Misses Newman.  Prof. Gegoux of Carthage, showed some of his fine portraits and crayon work which were greatly admired.

2.014)  The Watertown Re-Union - October 3, 1878 OUR COUNTY FAIR. The First Day - An Unqualified Success Over 10,000 People on the Grounds DOMESTIC HALL Within the walls of this department are gathered such a large number of fine articles of usefulness as well as of ornament that a close description of all would be impossible.  Our attention was first called yesterday to the fine display of portraits in crayon and oil as made at Theo. Gegoux's studio in Carthage.  These crayon portraits are really the finest we ever saw.  It almost seems impossible to picture so much life upon white paper with a piece of crayon. Among the collection that decorates the wall we noticed portraits of Mr. John A. Sherman, Mr. H. J. Welch, Mr. C. L. Frederick, Mr. R. S. Middleton, of New York, and the handsome boy of Mr. G. D. McAllaster, of Antwerp.  Mr. Gegoux besides being a fine artist is also a gentleman and whatever he says he will do you may depend upon it every time.  His portraits are becoming more and more popular as their merits are known, and we advise all, both great and small, to make Mr. Gegoux a call, while he stays in Domestic hall.  He will please you, sure.

2.015)  The Watertown Re-Union - Saturday - October 3, 1878 AWARD OF PREMIUMS. What the Successful Ones Got at the Redwood Fair. Theodore Gegoux, Carthage collection of oil paintings, 1st & 2nd Theo Gegoux, Carthage, crayon sketches, 2nd

2.016)  The Watertown Re-Union - October 17, 1878 JEFFERSON County FAIR. AWARD of PREMIUMS CLASS 57 - PICTURES. Best exhibition of pictures, work of exhibitor, Charles L. Hart, city $8.00 Second, Theo Gegoux, Carthage $5.00 Best lot original paintings, L. L. Lowell, city $5.00 Second (lot original paintings) .... L. L. Lowell, city $3.00 Best original oil portrait, Theo Gegoux, Carthage $5.00 Second (original oil portrait) .... Theo Gegoux, Carthage $2.00 Best copy landscape, L. L. Lowell, city $3.00 Second, Florence Peck, city $1.00 Best crayon drawing, T. Gegoux, Carthage $3.00 Best (crayon drawing) portrait, T.Gegoux, Carthage $3.00 Second (crayon drawing) portrait ... T.Gegoux, Carthage $2.00 Best specimen pencil drawing ... T.Gegoux, Carthage $2.00

2.017)  The Watertown Times - October 17, 1878 - Thursday In publishing the premium list there was an omission of two lines in class 57 on pictures.  The omitted lines are "Best original landscape painting.  L. L. Lowell, city, $5; second best, Theo. Gegoux , Carthage, $2."

2.018)  The Watertown Daily Times - October 24, 1878 - Thursday In publishing the premium list last week, there was an omission of two lines in class 57 on pictures.  The omitted lines are "Best original landscape painting,   L. L. Lowell, city, $5.   Second, Theo. Gegoux , Carthage, $2."

2.019)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - November 20, 1878 - Wednesday Mr. S. H. Dickinson, of Turin, is having two life-size crayon portraits of himself and wife, made by Theo. Gegoux, of Carthage.

2.020)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - November 20, 1878 - Wednesday Reprinted in The Carthage New York Republican - November 26, 1878 - Tuesday A Fine Work. Theo. Gegoux, the portrait artist, of Carthage, has recently produced some fine specimens of crayon work for patrons in this county.  The Haberer Bros, have had a life-size picture crayoned of their brother Henry A. Haberer, who died in Boonville nine years ago last August, of typhoid fever, after an illness of little more than a week in the 24th year of his age.  At the time of his death, the family possessed no creditable likeness, other than a simple tin-type, from which, the beautiful and life-like picture delivered here last week, was made.  All who have seen the work declare it to be a very perfect crayon portrait, and the family would not be dispossessed of it for many times its cost.  The production of such work as Prof. Gegoux turns out with his brush, gives him an enviable reputation among artists.

2.021)  The Lewis County Democrat - November 27, 1878 - Wednesday Portraits. Mr. Warren Salmons is having two life-size crayon portraits made by Prof. Gegoux, of Carthage - they are of himself and wife.  He may well expect to get some beautiful portraits as, the originals are not at all bad and the artist is surely a good one.

2.022)  The Watertown Daily Times - December 13, 1878 Mr. Gegoux, of Carthage, has just completed a fine portrait of Rev. M. D. Kinney, which is on exhibition in the Lowville post office.

2.023)  Utica Morning Herald - December 14, 1878 Our Special Correspondence - Lowville, Dec 13. A very striking portrait of Rev. M. D. Kinney, our M. E. pastor, has just been hung in the front window of the post office, the work of Artist Gegoux, of Carthage.

2.024)  The Carthage New York Republican - December 17, 1878 - Tuesday Wm. Palmer, of Harrisville, has been getting a crayon portrait of his daughter.  Theo. Gegoux is the artist.

2.025)  The Carthage New York Republican - December 24, 1878 - Tuesday Mr. M. Woolberton, of Albany, is getting two crayon portraits executed at Prof. Gegoux's studio.

2.026)  The Carthage New York Republican - January 14, 1879 - Tuesday Catholic Fair Notwithstanding the inclement weather, the Catholic Fair has been a greater success than the most sanguine expected.  The managers have had their hands full, yet everything passed off pleasantly, and we believe to the satisfaction of those who attended.  The additional features this year, dramatic entertainments, concert, stereo-opticon views, - were calculated to and did afford a pleasant entertainment.  The basement of the Church was fitted up in a better shape than ever before.  Following is a list of the prizes drawn and those who drew them: .... Theo Gegoux, village lot:

2.027)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - January 15, 1879 Theo. Gegoux, the celebrated portrait artist, of Carthage, is in Lowville this week engaged in making an oil painting from sittings of Mr. Warren Salmons.  When completed, like all of Prof. Gegoux's work, it will he valued for its finish and life like exactness.

2.028)  The Watertown Re-Union - January 16, 1879 Carthage The Catholic fair closed last Saturday night, notwithstanding the stormy weather and bad roads it has been a grand success.  The receipts were nearly $900 Miss Mary Burns was decided the most popular young lady by a very large majority and was the recipient of the gold necklace and cross.  Theodore Gegoux our rising young artist was among the lucky ones and drew a valuable village lot.  The proceeds of the fair will be used to pay the indebtedness on the parsonage.

2.029)  The Lewis County Democrat - January 29, 1879 - Wednesday Prof. Gegoux, of Carthage, left for New York last Monday and will remain there for a short time.

2.030)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - February 5, 1879 Prof. Gegoux, the portrait artist returned from New York yesterday, and will be in town for a few days.

2.031)  The Carthage New York Republican - February 18, 1879 - Tuesday Theo Gegoux , who has been absent from Carthage for several weeks, has returned and his studio is again open.  He has been visiting the Metropolis.

2.032)  The Carthage New York Republican - February 25, 1879 - Tuesday Chateaugay, Feb. 10th. - Mr. Gegoux :   Dear Sir: I received your letter on the same day that the picture came. I am very much pleased with the picture.  I do not see one thing to be changed in it.  I do not think you could have caught the expression better if you had seen her.  It is perfect and we are truly grateful. Yours, Mrs. J. D. Beckwith.

2.033)  The Carthage New York Republican - March 11, 1879 - Tuesday Mrs. A. G. Harter and Mrs. Chas. Slater are having executed two large crayon portraits of their father, Benj. Davis.  Theodore Gegoux is the artist.

2.034)  The Carthage New York Republican - March 25, 1879 - Tuesday Mr. G. H. W. Harter of Copenhagen, is having executed two life-size crayon portraits of his father and mother.  Theodore Gegoux is the artist.  Mr. H. may rest assured of getting some good portraits from the lightning brush.

2.035)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - April 2, 1879 - Thursday Mr. Theodore Gegoux, the artist from Carthage has executed a very fine pastel crayon portrait of the late Elder Gardner Baker, of the M. E. Church of this village where it will remain during the Conference.  This portrait was made from a small photograph and is pronounced wonderfully life like.

2.036)  The Watertown Re-Union - April 3, 1879 Carthage Prof. Theodore Gegoux has just completed a life size pastel crayon portrait of the late Rev. Gardner Baker, whom so many of your readers will remember as good old Father Baker.  All who have seen the portrait pronounce it perfect.  It will be exhibited at the annual conference, which will meet at Lowville the 9th of April.  The Professor has, executed some very fine portraits lately, among them we noticed one of our new Mayor, Mr. O. S. Lewis, as he appears in his Knight Templar regalia, of which organization he is a member.

2.037)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 9, 1879 The Church Decoration. In addition to its usual attractiveness, the audience room of the church has been very handsomely trimmed with heavy festoons of evergreens, pending from the ceilings and looped at intervals; the walls adjoined with appropriate mottos, on either side of the pulpit.  On the left is the emblem, "Upon the (Harp) I will praise Thee," and upon the right, "Hope is the (Anchor) of the Soul."  The center space above the pulpit bears the conspicuous "Welcome," underneath which "N. N. Y. Conference."  Under this inscription hangs a life-like pastel portrait of the late Gardner Baker.  "Father Baker" was presiding elder in this district many years, and probably no other was better known or more revered.  He died in the year 1877.  The portrait, which is five feet in height, was executed by Prof. Gegoux, of Carthage to be used upon this occasion.

2.038)  The Utica Morning Herald - April 9, 1879 - Wednesday Northern New York Conference Our Special Correspondence - Lowville, April 8. The seventh annual session of the Northern New York M. E. conference opens tomorrow.  We read this on the wall in the rear of the pulpit - "Welcome N. N. Y. Conference-" - and we believe every letter of it.  Under this motto there is a life-size portrait of Rev. Gardner Baker.  This picture is a colored crayon, technically known as pastel, and is the work of Prof. Theodore Gegoux , of Carthage.  The delicacy and naturalness of the picture stir enthusiasm in every one, and it is almost as though dear "Father Baker" was with us again.

2.039)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 9, 1879 A Pastel crayon portrait of the late Rev. Gardner Baker, who died at Alexandria Bay about two years ago, has been made by Prof. Theo. Gegoux, the portrait artist, of Carthage, and hung in the M. E. Church, over the pulpit.  It is greatly admired by the members of the conference for its life like accuracy and perfection of finish.  We understand Mr. Gegoux has several other orders in prospect.

2.040)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - April 9, 1879 - Wednesday Mr. Theodore Gegoux , the artist from Carthage, has executed a very fine pastel crayon of the late Elder Gardner Baker of the M. E. church and it can be seen hanging over the pulpit of the M. E. church in this village, where it will remain during the Conference.  This portrait was made from a small photograph and is pronounced wonderfully life like.

2.041)  The Carthage New York Republican - April 15 1879 - Tuesday The portrait of the Rev. Gardner Baker, executed by Theo. Gegoux , is on exhibition at the conference in Lowville, and is attracting much attention.

2.042)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 16, 1879 Leon Talcott, Esq., of this place, is having a life size portrait of himself, painted by Prof. Theo. Gegoux, of Carthage.  It is to be presented to his mother.

2.043)   The Watertown Re-Union - April 17, 1879 Lowville Prof. Theo Gegoux has on exhibit at the Methodist church, a fine picture of the late Gardner Baker, commonly known as Father Baker, for many years presiding elder of this district of the M. E. church.  The picture is what is known as a colored crayon.  It is said to be very life-like by those who were acquainted with the deceased, and reflects credit on the artist.

2.044)  The Carthage New York Republican - April 22, 1879 - Tuesday Prof. Gegoux took several orders for portraits at Lowville, while there during the conference.

2.045)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - April 23, 1879 - Wednesday Mr. Leon Talcott is having a life-size crayon portrait executed of himself, to be presented to his mother.  Prof. Gegoux is the artist.   (Note - Leon's mother was Cornelia Dayan, wife of John Conover of Lowville, who was her second husband.  Leon's father was John Talcott who died in 1856, when Leon was but five years of age.  Leon Talcott was born in Lowville and was educated at Lowville academy.  Gifted with rare ability, Leon entered the legal profession, and in this his success was marked for one of his years.  Sadly, Leon died young on February 12, 1885 from a paralysis of the brain for which no treatment could be devised.  Leon spent the last two years of his life at the Utica Insane asylum.  His friends recited this poem for him and offered these words.   "Weep not for him who dieth for he sleeps and is at last at rest, And the couch whereon he lieth is the green earth's quiet breast."   Leon was, "genial kind and courteous in his intercourse with his fellows, brilliant and eloquent in a most marked degree, ever actuated and governed in personal and professional matters by a profound sense of honor, faithful and zealous to the cause of his clients and friends.")

2.046)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 30, 1879 Highly Satisfactory. The success of Theo. Gegoux, of Carthage, as a portrait artist, is well assured, and many compliments are bestowed upon his work by those who have given his productions their attention.   The price, too, is not exorbitant as is sometimes the case with many artists who produce work which is practically valueless.  One of the chief successes of Prof. Gegoux, of which we wish more particularly to speak, consists in reproducing portraits of deceased persons in such a manner as to win approval.   Last summer we referred to the portrait of a child of Mr. Frank Weller, of this town, made of her death, which was a marvel for its life-like appearance. We have just learned of another similar production, made for Mr. and Mrs. N. F. Case, of Glendale.  The child, of whom the portrait was made, died at the age of seven years, but the parents had no picture other than a small photograph taken while at the age of four years.  They desired the large crayon portrait to represent the child at the age of seven years.   Prof. Gegoux undertook the task, and, upon its completion, received a voluntary letter from Mr. Case, pronouncing the portrait "just right, as their daughter was when she died," and thanking the artist in no unmeasured terms for the manner in which it was done.

2.047)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 30, 1879 Mr. H. S. Lanpher, of this village, is also having two crayon portraits of his lately deceased son Fred, executed by this artist, which we have no doubt will prove satisfactory.

2.048)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - April 30, 1879 Prof. Theo. Gegoux, of Carthage, was in town Saturday.  He took home his specimen portrait of Rev. Gardner Baker, which had been on exhibition during the conference.

2.049)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - April 30, 1879 - Wednesday Theodore Gegoux , the artist, has executed two fine portraits of Fred L. Lanpher, deceased son of Hiram Lanpher.  Died 20 years 10 months of consumption (Jan 31, 1879)

2.050)  The Carthage New York Republican - May 6, 1879 - Tuesday Highly Satisfactory. The success of Theo. Gegoux , of Carthage, as a portrait artist, is well assured, and many compliments are bestowed upon his work by those who have given his productions their attention.  The price, too, is not exorbitant, as is sometimes the case with many artists who produce work which is practically valueless.  One of the chief successes of Prof. Gegoux, of which we wish more particularly to speak, consists in reproducing portraits of deceased persons in such a manner as to win approval.  Last summer we referred to the portrait of a child of Mr. Frank Weller, of this town, made after death, which was a marvel for its life-like appearance.   We have just learned of another similar production, made for Mr. and Mrs. N. F. Case, of Glendale.  The child, of whom the portrait was made, died at the age of seven years, but the parents had no picture other than a small photograph taken while at the age of four.  They desired a crayon portrait to represent the child at the age of seven years.  Prof. Gegoux undertook the task and upon completion received a voluntary letter from Mr. Chase, pronouncing the portrait "just right, as their daughter was when she died," and thanking the artist in no unmeasured terms for the manner in which it was done.   Mr. H. S. Lanpher, of this village, is also having two crayon portraits of his lately deceased son Fred, executed by this artist, which we have no doubt will prove satisfactory. - Lowville Democrat.

2.051)  The Carthage New York Republican - May 6, 1879 - Tuesday Prof. Theo. Gegoux is executing a large crayon portrait for H. H. Smith, of Brooklyn, N. Y.

2.052)  The Carthage New York Republican - May 13, 1879 - Tuesday One More Man Made Happy. Prof. Theo. Gegoux Dear Sir: - The crayon portrait made by you of my father reached my residence safely last night.  It pleases me in every respect, as it is a perfect portrait of my father.  Enclosed please find check, with thanks. Yours truly, H. H. Smith - Brooklyn, N. Y.

2.053)  The Carthage New York Republican - June 10, 1879 - Tuesday Prof. Theo. Gegoux is soon to leave this town.  Those who wish to have their portraits painted by him will do well to send in their orders at once.

2.054)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - June 11, 1879 The following letter was received by Prof. Gegoux, the celebrated portrait artist, of Carthage, recently, and is sent to us for publication: Perch River, Jeff. Co., N. Y., June 8, '79. Prof. Theo. Gegoux: - Dear Sir: - The portrait arrived safe and sound yesterday, and I will say right here that I am more than pleased with it.  The eyes are opened a little more than was natural; we all think it as perfect as a picture can be.  I think you will get more work from here.  Please find post office order for the balance. Yours Sincerely, W. P. Smith.

2.055)  The Lewis County Democrat - June 18, 1879 - Wednesday Theo. Gegoux, the artist, will be in town this week Saturday.  Those who wish to have true portraits painted, or pictures of their deceased friends copied, can see him at G. W . Carter's studio.  He will have a specimen of his pastel crayon portrait on exhibition.

2.056)  The Carthage New York Republican - June 24, 1879 - Tuesday Notice to the People of Carthage and Vicinity: To you who, for the past year, have been endeavoring to patronize me by having your portraits painted or crayoned, and have delayed and waited for better times, I will say that if you wish to have that work done by me, and under your own supervision, you will do better by bringing your orders in at once, as I am to leave Carthage in July. Respectfully your servant. Theo Gegoux

2.057)  The Carthage New York Republican - June 24, 1879 - Tuesday Prof. Theo Gegoux was in Lowville last Saturday.  He took several orders for crayon portraits.

2.058)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - June 25, 1879 J. G. Marvin, of this village, has ordered a life size portrait in crayon of his sister who recently died in Buffalo.  To be executed by Prof. Gegoux, of Carthage.

2.059)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - June 25, 1879 Portrait From Sitting. A beautiful life-size pastel bust portrait of Rev. Mr. Granberry, pastor of the Episcopal church, of Carthage, has just been made from sittings, by the pencil of Prof. Theo. Gegoux.  The same is on exhibition in this village.  Those who have seen it pronounce it a very superior portrait.

2.060)  The Carthage New York Republican - July 1, 1879 - Tuesday Miss Nettie Hewitt is having executed a life size crayon portrait of her father, by Prof. Theo. Gegoux .   (Notes: Miss Nettie L. Hewitt has decided to give a concert at Mechanics' Hall, in Carthage, on Tuesday evening, Jan. 13th, two weeks from this evening.  She will be assisted by Miss Jennie Armstrong, known as "the lady whistler."  A grand treat may be expected.  Miss Nettie Hewitt is one of the most promising of all our young soprano singers.  Miss Nettie Hewitt will assist at a concert in Watertown Thursday evening, for the benefit of the city band.)

2.061)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - July 9, 1879 - Wednesday C. D. Moore is having executed a life size pastel portrait of his deceased sister.  Theo. Gegoux is the artist.

2.062)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - July 9, 1879 - Wednesday Prof. Theodore Gegoux will soon leave Carthage, to open a studio in Watertown where he will execute portraits at lightning speed.

2.063)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - July 9, 1879 - Wednesday Prof. Theo. Gegoux will be in town on Friday next.  Those who want their portrait painted or crayoned should not fail to see him.  He never fails to give satisfaction.

2.064)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - July 9, 1879 C. D. Moore is having executed a pastel crayon portrait of his deceased sister, life size.  Prof. Gegoux is the artist.   Prof. Gegoux will soon leave Carthage to open a studio in Watertown, where he will execute portraits at lightning like speed.

2.065)  The Carthage New York Republican - July 15, 1879 - Tuesday Joseph Switzer, of Carthage, is having two Crayon portraits of his deceased daughter executed at Theo Gegoux's studio.

2.066)  The Journal & Republican - Lowville - July 16, 1879 - Wednesday Mrs. Mary Dunnigan of this town is having executed a crayon portrait of her deceased son.  Theo Gegoux is the artist.  Mrs. D. may expect a true and life like portrait, for the reason that Prof. Gegoux never, or hardly ever, fails to give satisfaction.

2.067)  The Democrat, Lowville, Lewis County - July 16, 1879 Prof. Gegoux has been in Carthage for the past four years.  He says that he has made over four hundred different faces during that time.  We should think that the muscles of his face might be well trained now.

2.068)  The Watertown Re-Union - July 17, 1879 Carthage We understand Prof. Gegoux will remove to Watertown the latter part of the present month, where his artistic skill will undoubtedly be in better demand, as well as appreciated.

2.069)  The Lowville Times - July 24, 1879 - Thursday Carthage Prof. Gegoux will remove his studio to Watertown this week.